By Joe Krishnan

The club's owner believes that the Italian outfit can make perform well in Europe despite losing the likes of Kwadwo Asamoah and Mauricio Isla to Juventus

Udinese supremo Giampaolo Pozzo is confident his side can handle the loss of star players and has faith that his team can progress to the Champions League group stages.

The Serie A club finished in an impressive 3rd position last year and despite losing some star players this summer, Pozzo believes they will manage without them.

He told Sky Sport Italia: “Last year against Arsenal we were unlucky, this year I am confident. It would be a real shame to miss a chance like this.”

“Even though we lost two important players in Isla and Asamoah, we have replaced them well. In the preliminaries you also need luck, but the squad has the will and the potential to reach the group stages.”

Pozzo, who also has controlling stakes in England and Spain with Watford and Granada, has also heaped praise on club legend Antonio Di Natale, who is entering his 9th season at the club.

“He’s a player who deserves a lot for what he has done for this team. He is very fond of these colours and this club, and has always been consistent.

“He has received many offers but never gave up and remained here. He is our pride and our Bandiera. For the club, as for Di Natale, it’s a great honour playing in the Champions League.”